Live Review: Perfume Genius @ 9:30 Club, 5/15/17

Intrepid mysterious Special Guest Star The Paper went in search of good live sounds, and the following is what transpired when he took in Perfume Genius at the 9:30 Club.

I have seen over a hundred bands every year for five out of the last six years. Not once was the headliner scheduled to go on as early as half past seven. Besides, the overwhelming majority of the time, sets never start on time. I am dismayed to report that I missed the first three songs of Perfume Genius. Thankfully, many did not make the mistake I did given the mostly filled venue. In fact, Mike remarked that this was the biggest DC crowd yet.

"DC loves you!" someone shouted.

"I love you too!" replied Mike.

That simple exchange encapsulates the spirit of the show. There was a tender intimacy throughout the band's hour long set. Even the louder dance numbers induced more swaying than they did headbanging. Actually, there was none of the latter, just mere nods. Aside from applause, the audience was eerily silent. Usually this might convey displeasure or disinterest, except in this case everyone was transfixed by Mike's performance. He saunterd about the stage, gyrating his body with grace as he sang. Combined with the soft melodies floating in the air, it mesmerized everyone.

The effect grew moreso for the twenty minute encore. Starting solo at the keyboard, he was then joined by Allen who shared the same seat. The four hands proceeded to dance across the keys, to my awe. Finally, Tom and Irving reappeared on stage on bass and drums respectively to end on a loud note in which we saw Mike curtsey off the stage while the band carried on.

[words and photos of Perfume Genius by The Paper]

[posted 5.26.17]